Let's dive into a recent scam that hit close to home in Laval. It’s a story that might sound unbelievable, but it's a stark reminder to always stay vigilant, especially for our beloved seniors. Here’s a little humor to lighten the mood: If something sounds fishy, it’s probably a scammer with a net!
The Scam Uncovered
Recently, the Laval Police (LPD) nabbed an underage fraudster who tricked people, mostly seniors, into giving up their debit cards and PINs. This young scammer was quite crafty, making up to 30 fraudulent incidents! Here’s how the scam played out:
The Con Game
- The Call: The scammer called victims at home, pretending to be from their bank.
- The Lie: He told them their bank card had been compromised.
- The Trick: Victims were instructed to place their debit cards in an envelope and write their PIN on the back.
- The Pickup: A so-called “courier” would then pick up the envelope from the victim’s home.
- The Fraud: Once in possession of the cards and PINs, the fraudster used them at ATMs and stores to steal money.
In some cases, the scammer went a step further. He organized a conference call with the victims and a real bank representative to “reactivate” the blocked cards. This extra touch made the scam seem even more legitimate.
Type of Scam: Debit Card Fraud
This scam is a classic example of debit card fraud, where the scammer gains access to both the physical card and the PIN, making it easy to withdraw money or make purchases.
How to Protect Yourself: Regulator-Validated Practices
- Verify Caller Identity: Always confirm the identity of anyone calling you about your bank account. Hang up and call your bank directly using the number on the back of your card.
- Never Share PINs: Your bank will never ask for your PIN over the phone or request it to be written down.
- Secure Your Card: Never give your debit or credit card to someone else, even if they claim to be a courier from your bank.
- Report Suspicious Calls: If you receive a suspicious call, report it to your local police and your bank immediately.
Conclusion
Remember, staying informed and cautious can protect you from falling victim to scams. Always verify and be wary of unsolicited requests for your personal information. And don’t forget, you’re never alone in this. Report any suspicious activity to the authorities and help keep our community safe!
To read more about this incident, visit the original post here